Can laser be used to treat acne rosacea?

Almost every cosmetic physician thinks that laser is like penicillin and can cure every skin ailment. Lasers only help very few individuals with rosacea. In the majority of cases, lasers cause more harm than benefit. Lasers are also expensive, do not cure rosacea, and are never the first choice of treatment. There is no clinical evidence that lasers can alter the course of rosacea or prevent recurrence. All lasers do is reduce the redness. This same benefit can be obtained with use of Retinoids for 1/20^th cost and without having to suffer pain or potential complications. 

If your doctor recommends laser for acne rosacea, get a second opinion.

Besides antibiotics, what else is used to treat acne rosacea?

Other treatments for Rosacea include the use of Azelaic acid, Flagyl, Retinoids or some sulfur formulations. It is important not to combine these treatments but stick to one that works. Unfortunately, what may work for one individual may not always work for another person. When Rosacea is severe enough, it may even require surgery to help reduce the visible blood vessels and remove excess skin tissue from the nose. Remember, surgery is not a cure for Rosacea; it is only designed to reshape the nose. It is also very expensive.

I have tried home remedies for acne rosacea but they have not helped. What should I do next?

If self-care remedies are not adequate to control symptoms, one needs to see an honest skin doctor. For moderate and severe rosacea, oral or topical antibiotics can do wonders. The most common antibiotics used are clindamycin or doxycycline. These antibiotics can rapidly reduce the inflammation and redness. The treatment may be required for several weeks to completely eradicate the symptoms. 

The treatment of Rosacea requires patience because the disorder generally takes time to resolve. In some cases, prescription antibiotics may be required for many weeks and months.

What are essentials factors in treating acne Rosacea?

Essential factors include good skin care. Do not use harsh skin cleansers or peeling agents. Avoid all oily fragrances, moisturizers, cream, and lotions. Creams and lotions with fragrances contain many synthetic chemicals that can worsen your rosacea.

All individuals with rosacea must regularly use sunscreens when they go out in the sun. Select a water-based sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Many individuals who have rosacea get worsening of their symptoms after intense sun exposure.

How do I know which triggers worsen my rosacea?

The only way to identify the triggers is to keep a small diary and write down when the episodes occur and what you think was the most likely cause. Over a few weeks or months, you will have a good idea what the trigger factors are. Once you have identified the factors, all you need to do is avoid them or limit the exposure. A lot of clinical evidence reveals that mild to moderate Rosacea can be successful treated with this simple method.

What are common triggers to avoid if I have acne rosacea?

Common triggers that are known to aggravate Rosacea include: 

- Exposure to extremes of temperatures (either too hot or too cold)
- Alcohol consumption
- Eating hot and spicy foods
- Intense exercise under humid conditions
- Stress (both physical and emotional).